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Media is home to this iconic dish | Inquirer Greater Media
Hi, Greater Media! 👋

Media is home to one of the most iconic dishes in the region, according to our food reporters. Here’s what makes the cut. Also this week, we investigate the Springfield High School alum accused of defrauding investors in his local startup, a Media restaurant was damaged in a fire, plus we peek inside a 19th-century farmhouse.

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Media is home to some of the region’s most iconic dishes

Santucci’s is known for its “upside-down” square pies. Tim Tail / Staff Photographer

Last week, The Inquirer dropped its list of the 76 most iconic dishes in the region, and there are several local ties.

Ranking at No. 61 is Santucci’s upside-down pizza, a pie so distinctive reporter Michael Klein said it helps give the region its own pizza identity. You can snag your own slice of the square pie with its sauce on the top at the outpost on East Baltimore Avenue in Media.

It’s followed at No. 60 by the junior hot fudge sundae at Franklin Fountain. While not in the area, the Old City Philadelphia staple is owned by Media natives and brothers Ryan and Eric Berley, according to reporter Beatrice Forman. Don’t miss the sundae served with a single scoop of ice cream topped with whipped cream, hot fudge, and a cherry.

And clocking in at No. 11 is none other than a Wawa shorti. Sure, you can find it at any Wawa, but given the company is rooted here, we’ll claim this one, too.

Check out the full list here. But be warned: You’ll be hungry after you finish reading it.

💡 Community News
- A Springfield High School alum who founded a West Chester tech startup is facing accusations of fraud, including misspending funds on Philadelphia sports stadium advertising deals and pocketing millions to pay for an extravagant lifestyle. Inquirer reporter Max Marin delves into how LifeBrand went from a $137 million valuation to being sold for pennies on the dollar.
- PennDot released a draft of its Planning and Environmental Linkages study for its Routes 352 and 1 improvements project in Middletown Township. The goal of the project is to reduce congestion at the cloverleaf intersection and improve safety in the area. Community members can provide feedback and comments on the plans through July 17.
- A 19th-century farmhouse-style Springfield home is The Inquirer’s “House of the Week.” The five-bedroom home is a seven-minute drive to Media and is on the market for $475,000. Take a peek inside.
- A black bear was spotted in Media last week, marking the latest such sighting in the region. (6abc)
- A movie paying homage to Delaware County is being released on DVD next week. Delco: The Movie premiered at the Media Theatre last January. The independent film follows three teens circa 2004 spending a day living “the Delco way.”
🍽️ On our Plate
- Peking Media Restaurant has been closed since Friday after a fire broke out in the 6 W. State St. eatery’s kitchen. It’s unclear what started the fire or when the restaurant will reopen. (Daily Times)
🎳 Things to Do

🎶 Rose Tree Summer Concert Festival: The upcoming lineup features performances from the Fabulous Greaseband tonight, Philly Gumbo tomorrow, the Rose Tree Pops on Saturday, and the Jersey Beach Boys on Sunday. ⏰ Thursday, June 18-Wednesday, June 24, 7:30 p.m. 💵 Free 📍 Rose Tree Park, Media

🎵 Amped Up Outdoor Concert: Hear local ukulele orchestra Swukestra perform. ⏰ Thursday, June 18, 6-8 p.m. 💵 Free 📍 Swarthmore amphitheater

🗓️ Juneteenth Celebration: Now in its fifth year, the county’s annual event will feature food trucks, vendors, performances, and student artwork. ⏰ Friday, June 19, 4-7 p.m. 💵 Free 📍 Rose Tree Park, Media

🍔 Food Truck Frenzy: About two dozen food trucks will be at Linvilla Orchards over the course of two days, dishing up everything from burgers and barbecue to waffles and water ice. ⏰ Saturday, June 20 and Sunday, June 21, 11 a.m-5 p.m. 💵 Pay as you go 📍 Linvilla Orchards, Media

🪶 Meet a Bird of Prey: Kids ages 6 and up can get up close to a hawk at this educational Audubon Society event. ⏰ Tuesday, June 23, 3-3:45 p.m. 💵 Free 📍 Swarthmore Public Library

🏡 On the Market

A Rose Valley home with a massive 19th century barn

The property includes a 21st-century home and a 19th-century bridge barn.Brenden Steiner | Courtesy of J. Scott Laughlin/Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices

Situated on private lane in Rose Valley, this nearly one-acre property has a decidedly unique feature: a four-story bridge barn that dates back to 1872. The giant space, which could be converted into many uses, includes original stalls on the ground level, in addition to 2,700 square feet of storage space and a two-bedroom apartment. A new home was built on the property in 2003, in part of another barn’s ruins. It has three bedrooms, a three-season room, and a deck built within part of the original stone that looks out on the grounds.

See more photos of the property here.

Price: $1,279,900 | Size: 2,824 SF | Acreage: 0.99

🗞️ What other Greater Media residents are reading this week:
By submitting your written, visual, and/or audio contributions, you agree to The Inquirer’s Terms of Use, including the grant of rights in Section 10.

This suburban content is produced with support from the Leslie Miller and Richard Worley Foundation and The Lenfest Institute for Journalism. Editorial content is created independently of the project donors. Gifts to support The Inquirer’s high-impact journalism can be made at inquirer.com/donate. A list of Lenfest Institute donors can be found at lenfestinstitute.org/supporters.
June 18, 2026
Inside a West Chester startup’s downfall | Inquirer Chester County
Hi, Chester County! 👋

How did a West Chester tech startup go from a $137 million valuation to being sold for pennies on the dollar? We investigate. Also this week, the county celebrates its centenarians, popular beer garden The Creamery is adding a wedding venue, plus the latest on efforts to prevent an East Whiteland data center.

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The rise and fall of West Chester-based tech startup LifeBrand

T.J. Colaiezzi was the CEO of West Chester-based startup LifeBrand.Inquirer illustration; AP Images; Getty Images

The founder of West Chester-based startup LifeBrand is facing accusations of fraud, including misspending funds on splashy Philadelphia sports stadium advertising deals and pocketing millions to pay for an extravagant lifestyle (see: a $4.8 million Shore home.)

Investors are taking T.J. Colaiezzi, the company’s CEO and a former gym manager with no tech background, to court, claiming he squandered their investments. LifeBrand — which helped users find and delete potentially embarrassing social media posts, as well as companies vet potential candidates — was once valued at $137 million, but sold in 2024 for pennies on the dollar.

One investor called it a “Ponzi-like” scheme, but Colaiezzi says the venture was a genuine effort, albeit full of mistakes — none of which he said amounted to fraud.

In this Inquirer investigation, reporter Max Marin delves into Colaiezzi’s actions that led to the downfall of a once-promising startup.

How these local centenarians paved the way for the generations that followed

Raised in South Coatesville, Henry Jacks, 104, was a Boy Scout leader, the first Black mail carrier in Coatesville, a city councilmember, and a judge of elections.Steven M. Falk / For The Inquirer

Last week, Chester County celebrated a group of residents with a unique and shared distinction: reaching or exceeding the age of 100.

During their lifetimes, they’ve witnessed numerous changes locally and globally, from increased traffic in the county to the rise of television.

The Inquirer’s Brooke Schultz shares some of their stories.

📍 Countywide News
- There will be roadwork in several municipalities this week, including ongoing work on Route 30, plus the start of a $1.9 million retaining wall project. See all the possible delays and detours you need to know this week.
💡 Community News
- In case you missed it, at least six people were detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement last week in Phoenixville, according to immigration advocates.
- A Chester County judge has quashed two appeals seeking to halt construction of a 1.5 million-square-foot data center proposed in East Whiteland Township. Here’s what to know about the latest effort to stop the project.
- Main Line Health is expanding its Paoli Hospital campus by adding a 108-bed pavilion. The $220 million to $240 million project will increase its capacity by over 40% and is slated to open in 2029.
- A former East Whiteland Township police sergeant and a former member of Octorara Area School District’s school board enrolled in an advanced rehabilitative disposition program last month after being charged with illegally recording a closed executive school board session. Upon completing the program for first-time offenders, Anthony Falgiatore Sr.’s charges will be dismissed and his record expunged. The Inquirer’s Vinny Vella has the details.
- Beloved Kennett Square beer garden The Creamery is expanding next year by adding a dedicated wedding venue. The new adjacent space will accommodate up to 300 guests. It will have an area for a cocktail reception and suites for the wedding party to get ready.
- On-air hosts at West Chester-based QVC are moving to unionize as the home shopping giant reorganizes amid a Chapter 11 bankruptcy. The hosts are seeking recognition of their union, with plans to join SAG-AFTRA, which represents 160,000 media professionals nationwide.
- West Goshen Township is hosting two conditional use hearings regarding West Chester University’s master plan. The first meeting will take place Tuesday at 6 p.m. at the township building, with another slated for June 30.
- The first phase of construction is underway on the Randolph Woods Nature Preserve in Malvern. The project includes an ADA-accessible loop trail and a pedestrian bridge, boardwalk, and viewing platform. Work is expected to continue through the fall.
- West Vincent Township is celebrating the opening of Fellowship Trail tonight with a community event that includes pretzels, ice creams, and a ribbon cutting. The trail links to Upper Uwchlan Township by way of a 1.3-mile pedestrian- and bike-friendly path.
- A women’s-only fitness studio opened its newest location this week in West Chester. Located at 109 N. High St., Train & Nourish offers personal training and classes.
- The Spring City community pool opens daily for the season on Saturday. Its new hours are noon to 7 p.m. Admission is $10 a day for non-members.
🏫 Schools Briefing
- Earlier this month the Coatesville Area School District reached a four-year agreement with the teachers’ association, which the school board approved at last week’s meeting. The new contract goes into effect July 1 and includes a new schedule for wage increases, with 3.5% bumps for the first three years, and 2.5% for the final year. The board also approved the 2026-27 budget, which includes a 3.5% property tax increase.
- Tredyffrin/Easttown School District’s board approved its 2026-27 budget last week with a 4.99% property tax increase, which includes the allowed 3.5% increase plus an additional 1.49% through a referendum exception for special education expenses. That translates to a roughly $388 annual increase for the average assessed home.
- Two Chester County girls’ lacrosse teams took home championships over the weekend. Twin Valley High School’s girls’ lacrosse team clinched the PIAA 2A championship on Saturday, defeating Wyomissing Area Junior-Senior High School 11-5. And B. Reed Henderson High School in the West Chester Area School District claimed the PIAA 3A title, beating Conestoga High School 11-6.
- Phoenixville Area School District’s school board passed its 2026-27 budget earlier this month, which calls for a 3.5% property tax increase.
🍽️ On our Plate
- Last week, The Inquirer dropped our list of the 76 most iconic dishes in the region and there are some local ties among them. Ranking at No. 61 is Santucci’s upside-down pizza, which you can grab at the Paoli outpost. And potato chips from Nottingham-based Herr’s took the No. 46 spot for being so ubiquitous they’re found on virtually every deli shelf in the region. Lastly, Crabfries from Chickie’s & Pete’s rank No. 20. You can get the tasty crinkle cut fries dusted with crab seasoning at the location in Malvern.
- Good news for bagel lovers: Delaware-rooted shop The Original Hot Bagels opened its newest outpost at 100 Landenberg Rd. on Saturday, taking over The Landenberg Store’s former space. The Original Hot Bagels is known for its bagels and bagel sandwiches including breakfast versions, a bagel burger, a bagel cheesesteak, and pizza bagels.
🎳 Things to Do

🎙️ Sound of Summer Free Concert Series: Blues and funk mashup band Antar Goodwin and the Faithful Sinners headlines this week’s show. There will also be food trucks. ⏰ Wednesday, June 17, 6:30-8:30 p.m. 💵 Free 📍 Anson B. Nixon Park, Kennett Square

🍄 250 in Kennett: The borough will celebrate the nation’s semiquincentennial by bedecking the beloved giant mushroom used for the New Year’s Eve drop in red, white, and blue. ⏰ Thursday, June 18, 5:30-9 p.m. 💵 Free 📍 West State Street, Kennett Square

🎤 East Pikeland Summer Concert Series: Be Kind Rewind, a ‘90s cover band, headlines this year’s first concert. ⏰ Thursday, June 18, 6:30 p.m. 💵 Free 📍 Miller Ampitheater at Kimberton Park, Phoenixville

🎈 Chester County Balloon Festival: See hot air balloons take to the skies or take a ride yourself at this three-day festival. ⏰ Friday, June 19-Sunday, June 21, times vary 💵 $12.51-$28.52, free for kids under 6 📍 Ludwig’s Corner Horse Show, Glenmoore

🏳️‍🌈 PrideFest: This Pride festival will have live entertainment, over 170 vendors to browse, and kid-friendly activities. ⏰ Saturday, June 20, noon-5 p.m. 💵 Pay as you go 📍 Bridge Street, Phoenixville

🗓️ Coatesville Juneteenth: The Coatesville area NAACP branch is hosting a day of celebration for the holiday, including a family basketball tournament, a parade, and a community fair. ⏰ Sunday, June 21, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 💵 Pay as you go 📍 Around Paul Palmer Park, Coatesville

🏡 On the Market

A four-bedroom Kennett Square home that overlooks the woods

The home sits in a cul-de-sac and backs up to a wooded area.Diamond State Photography | Courtesy of Jerry Strusowski/BHHS Fox & Roach

This four-bedroom home in the Hadley’s Mill community of East Marlborough Township has undergone a number of updates throughout the years. It features a two-story great room with ample windows and a fireplace, an eat-in kitchen with granite countertops and high-end appliances, and an office. It also has a first-floor primary-suite with two closets and a spacious bathroom. An upstairs bedroom opens onto a bonus room, while the finished basement could accommodate another suite thanks to a full bathroom there. Out back, there’s a new deck that looks onto the woods.

See more photos of the home here.

Price: $1.15M | Size: 5,218 SF | Acreage: 0.58

🗞️ What other Chester County residents are reading this week:
By submitting your written, visual, and/or audio contributions, you agree to The Inquirer’s Terms of Use, including the grant of rights in Section 10.

This suburban content is produced with support from the Leslie Miller and Richard Worley Foundation and The Lenfest Institute for Journalism. Editorial content is created independently of the project donors. Gifts to support The Inquirer’s high-impact journalism can be made at inquirer.com/donate. A list of Lenfest Institute donors can be found at lenfestinstitute.org/supporters.
June 17, 2026
What’s really going on with Brio Italian Grille | Inquirer Cherry Hill
Hello, Cherry Hill! 👋

Been wondering what’s going on with Brio Italian Grille after rumors of its forthcoming closure began swirling? We dig into the details. Also this week, we’ve put together a guide to the newly updated H Mart, South Jersey progressives weigh in on Gov. Mikie Sherrill’s first major hurdle, plus an alleged former mob boss is dishing up a local pizza recipe at his new Shore joint.

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Despite reports, Brio Italian Grille may not be closing

Brio Italian Grille’s location in Cherry Hill. Sarah Nicell

Last month, reports began swirling online that Brio Italian Grille in Towne Place at Garden State Park would be closing and be replaced by Fogo de Chão. But that may not come to fruition.

While permits have been issued for the Brazilian steakhouse to overhaul Brio’s current space, the chain doesn’t have a lease to take it over yet, a real estate executive with the firm that owns Towne Place’s tenant management company said. Should Brio, which filed for bankruptcy last year, choose not to renew its lease, “Fogo is 100% a tenant we would be interested in speaking with.”

The Inquirer’s Sarah Nicell digs into what’s actually going on and what could potentially happen.

A self-described H Mart diehard’s guide to the updated outpost

The H Mart in Cherry Hill was recently updated.Hira Qureshi

Cherry Hill’s H Mart recently underwent a massive update, including an overhaul to the Asian grocery store’s first floor and a new second-floor food hall. Inquirer reporter and self-described H Mart diehard Hira Qureshi recently paid a visit to suss out the best finds.

Her advice? Start on the second floor, browsing the sections with Korean beauty products and general goods like notebooks, small toys, and character keychains, as well as an arcade, first. After, she recommends tackling the first floor, stocked with meat, produce, seafood, and other grocery staples.

By then, you’ll have worked up an appetite, so swing by the new food court.

Here’s her full guide to the updated H Mart.

💡 Community News
- In case you missed it, last week 28-year-old Oregon man Cristian Custodio-Aquino pleaded guilty to first-degree murder in connection with the 2024 stabbing death of Cherry Hill veterinarian Michael Anthony. The Inquirer’s Jesse Bunch has all the details.
- South Jersey progressives who campaigned for Gov. Sherrill say the first-term governor failed her first major test in the office, juggling her opposition to Delaney Hall, the Immigration and Customs Enforcement detention center, with widespread criticism for how she handled protests outside of it. Cherry Hill resident Marie Henselder-Kimmel, who leads NJ Voters Who Want More Say, said she feels “torn” about Sherrill’s decision to send in state police during the protests. The Inquirer’s Aliya Schneider delves into what some former supporters are saying.
- A new nursing home opened at 3025 Chapel Ave. last week. Dwellside Care and Rehab offers both short- and long-term care.
- With the World Cup now underway, locals can catch games at Soccer Post Cherry Hill, which is streaming matches on its seven TVs, as well as AMC Theatres on Route 38, which has viewings of select games with Spanish-language broadcasts.
- The College World Series kicked off this week and there was plenty of local talent on the eight teams that made the bracket, including Cherry Hill West alum Jon Young Jr. The sophomore at the University of Alabama is one of six players with area ties.
- Heads up for drivers: There will be work on several roads this week, including a partial westbound lane closure on Kresson Road between Evesham and Cropwell Roads from 7 p.m. to 5 a.m. through Friday. Kenilworth Avenue will be closed between Chapel Avenue and Route 38 from 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. through Friday. And Cooper Landing Road will be closed between Valley Run and Route 70 from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. today through Saturday.
🏫 Schools Briefing
- Tomorrow is the last day of school, as well as high school graduations. There’s a board of education meeting Tuesday evening. See the district’s full calendar here.
- Superintendent Kwame Morton made $250,213 for the 2025-26 school year, putting his annual salary $46,485 over the average superintendent salary statewide. (NJ.com)
- Earlier this month, the Sari Isdaner Early Childhood Center at the Katz JCC named Stacey Unterlack director of Jewish education and early childhood education. Unterlack had previously served as interim director.
🍽️ On our Plate
- Notorious former alleged mob boss Joseph “Skinny Joey” Merlino recently expanded his eatery, opening Skinny Joey’s Cheesesteaks & Pizza in Wildwood. He’s added stromboli and pizza to the menu, the latter using a recipe from Vito’s on Haddonfield Berlin Road. Merlino’s social media-driven reboot is thanks in part to Joe “Lil Snuff” Perri Jr., who you might recognize from his brassy, unscripted commercials for Mall Chevrolet. The Inquirer’s Michael Klein explains how the two connected and built a popular brand.
- Blue Fig Garden is one of the best Mediterranean restaurants in the state, according to BestofNJ.com. The website noted the restaurant at the mall combines Turkish and Mediterranean flavors.
🎳 Things to Do

🍷 Wine Down Wednesday: Enjoy five two-ounce pours of wine and appetizers. ⏰ Wednesday, June 17, 6-8 p.m. 💵 $25 📍 Randall’s Restaurant

🗓️ Juneteenth: Cherry Hill African American Civil Association hosts its sixth annual parade and festival, complete with live music, vendors, food trucks, and a petting zoo. ⏰ Saturday, June 20, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. (Rain date: June 21) 💵 Pay as you go 📍 Croft Farm

🍑 The Peach Truck Tour: The roving peach truck will make a stop at the mall to sell boxes of the fresh fruit (which is good news, since local crops were largely wiped out earlier this year). It’ll return again next month. ⏰ Saturday, June 20, 4:30-6 p.m. 💵 $15-$120 📍 Cherry Hill Mall

🍿 Wicked: For Good: Catch a screening of the sequel to the Broadway hit and popular 2024 film. ⏰ Monday, June 22, 2-4:20 p.m. 💵 Free 📍 Cherry Hill Public Library

🏡 On the Market

A four-bedroom Kresson Woods Colonial with a fenced backyard

The brick-front home has a Colonial-style layout.Plush | Courtesy of Jacki Silva Steuer/The Silva Group | OCF Realty

Located in Kresson Woods, this four-bedroom brick Colonial has a bright interior. The living room features large windows and a fireplace and there’s a dining room off the kitchen, which has two-tone cabinetry, granite countertops, a walk-in pantry, and a double oven. All four bedrooms are upstairs, including a primary suite with a walk-in closet. Out back, there’s a patio and a fenced yard.

See more photos of the home here.

Price: $550,000 | Size: 1,836 SF | Acreage: 0.25

🗞️ What other Cherry Hill residents are reading this week:
By submitting your written, visual, and/or audio contributions, you agree to The Inquirer’s Terms of Use, including the grant of rights in Section 10.

This suburban content is produced with support from the Leslie Miller and Richard Worley Foundation and The Lenfest Institute for Journalism. Editorial content is created independently of the project donors. Gifts to support The Inquirer’s high-impact journalism can be made at inquirer.com/donate. A list of Lenfest Institute donors can be found at lenfestinstitute.org/supporters.
June 17, 2026
Developers of a Yass-backed Gladwyne development present a pared-back plan after hearing from residents

The team behind a major redevelopment of the heart of Gladwyne presented a pared-back plan to residents last week after considering extensive public feedback.

Design firm Haldon House and local billionaires Jeff and Janine Yass earlier this year unveiled plans to reinvigorate Gladwyne with new buildings, renovated historic structures, public green space, and updated commercial options that would breathe new life into the Main Line community’s quaint downtown.

The project has sparked buzz in the community, with some Gladwyne residents eager for their neighborhood to get a facelift, and others skeptical of the development’s impact on traffic, parking, and Gladwyne’s character.

Five months after unveiling the project, Haldon House owners Andre Golsorkhi and Autumn Oser brought an updated approach to Gladwyne residents at a meeting of the Gladwyne Civic Association on May 18. The new proposal features fewer buildings, more open green space, and more subdued aesthetics than the original scheme.

The Village Shoppes, including the Gladwyne Pharmacy, at the intersection of Youngs Ford and Righters Mill Roads in Gladwyne. Under the proposal, the Shoppes would be razed and replaced with an updated, barn-style building.Elizabeth Robertson / Staff Photographer

Haldon House’s revised plans for Gladwyne center on five main renovations: moving and expanding the Gladwyne Pharmacy into the former Gladwyne Market building; bringing a restaurant into the former OMG Hair Salon building; constructing a new barn-style building for an expansion of local cafe Homeroom; building a public green space between Homeroom and the library; and razing a residential property on Youngs Ford Road to create a parking lot.

The reconfigured plan has not officially been submitted to Lower Merion Township for approval. Greg Prichard, historic preservation planner for Lower Merion, said the township is expecting the Gladwyne project to involve meetings of multiple review boards with the board of commissioners’ approval as the final green light.

Haldon House has not disclosed a cost for the project, but Golsorkhi has said that the developers “have a very good understanding of the scope and scale of the investment required” and are “fully committed to what is needed to see this through.” The developers have spent over $15 million acquiring the properties.

Golsorkhi and Oser said survey responses, public comment, and informal feedback from the Lower Merion Historical Architectural Review Board (HARB) gathered over the last few months helped shape the amended plan, one that leans into Gladwyne’s existing businesses and keeps a “quirkiness” cherished by residents.

Under the proposal, the Gladwyne Pharmacy would be moved into the former site of Gladwyne Market at 357 Righters Mill Rd. Gladwyne Market shuttered last fall after the building was purchased for $5 million.

Oser said Haldon House wants to “celebrate the pharmacy” by expanding its inventory and designing a space that is “charming and nostalgic” with a wraparound porch and outdoor seating.

The former Gladwyne Market, which shuttered last fall after developers purchased its building. The Gladwyne Pharmacy is set to move into the space under plans proposed by Haldon House.Jasmine Goldband / Staff

Across the street, 358 Righters Mill Rd., the current home of the pharmacy and Homeroom, a local cafe, would be torn down and replaced with a new building. The building would house an expanded site for Homeroom and an upstairs office tenant (the upstairs would potentially be used as a conference space for Haldon House, the developers said at a HARB meeting, or as a flexible event space for community vendors). Homeroom would likely expand its menu, extending its hours into the early evening and growing its bakery apparatus.

The building would combine stone facades with wood paneling and floor-to-ceiling windows, a design the developers say is “rooted in Main Line tradition” yet “contemporary.”

Oser said Haldon House took to heart feedback that the first iteration of 358 Righters Mill Rd. was too polished for Gladwyne.

“There was the specific request, like, ‘Please keep the quirk.’ Gladwyne is quirky, and it’s eclectic, and we like that,” she said at the civic association meeting. “… That was awesome feedback, and it was a really good point.”

Haldon House originally intended to bring a slate of new businesses to the village, but Oser and Golsorkhi realized they could fulfill the community’s needs by expanding the offerings at its existing businesses, rather than bringing in more retail tenants.

The intersection of Youngs Ford and Righters Mill Roads in Gladwyne.Elizabeth Robertson / Staff Photographer

358 Righters Mill Rd. would abut a community green space outfitted with a gazebo, native plants, and an amphitheater. The developers hope to use the green space as a hub for outdoor education, library events, and yoga classes, among other activities.

The developers said they would establish a fund that draws on revenue from the properties to pay for park upkeep. Golsorkhi at a township meeting said that the tenants themselves would not be responsible for the park’s maintenance.

The developers plan to bring a restaurant to 351 Righters Mill Rd., the former location of OMG Hair Salon. Currently, the only full-service restaurant in Gladwyne’s commercial core is the Union League’s members-only Guard House, which has been closed to the public for dining for nearly a decade.

Oser outlined a vision for a “watering hole” that honors Gladwyne with historic photos and a “timeless” interior.

The developers want a dining option that “only exists in Gladwyne” and do not plan to recruit a restaurant from Philadelphia, Oser said.

A residential property at 946 Youngs Ford Rd. would be razed and turned into a parking lot. A retaining wall and tree barrier would be erected around the lot as a buffer for neighboring residents (one single-family home and a townhouse development border the proposed parking lot). The developers would need to secure a zoning change from the township to convert the property into parking.

The proposal has brought tepid optimism — and a handful of concerns — to the small community.

Some have praised the redevelopment, describing it as a much-needed facelift for a corridor with few amenities and deteriorating buildings. Others have warned of increased traffic and parking issues in an intersection that already deals with congestion.

At Monday’s meeting, residents who border the proposed parking lot criticized what they described as a lack of communication from the developers and warned that the lot would disrupt the neighbors who surround it.

“I think you’ve come a long way. This thing is going in the right direction,” Ed Lewis, a resident of a neighboring property, said during a recent HARB meeting.

But Lewis warned, “You have to have the basics solved at the beginning: traffic, pedestrian access, and the green, existing trees and reinforced with new vegetation.”

This suburban content is produced with support from the Leslie Miller and Richard Worley Foundation and The Lenfest Institute for Journalism. Editorial content is created independently of the project donors. Gifts to support The Inquirer’s high-impact journalism can be made at inquirer.com/donate. A list of Lenfest Institute donors can be found at lenfestinstitute.org/supporters.

June 16, 2026
A complete guide to Cherry Hill’s newly improved H Mart

After nearly 25 years in operation, the newly renovated H Mart in Cherry Hill is drawing crowds as regulars and newcomers marvel at its major improvements.

The outpost of the renowned Korean grocery store off Route 70 has served the local community since 2001. In April 2025, the Cherry Hill Township Planning Board approved plans for an expansion. A year later, the grocery store reopened with enhancements to the first floor and an open-concept food court, bakery, and retail space on the second.

As a diehard H Mart fan, I decided to venture across the bridge on a recent Thursday and see the 39,000-square-foot store for myself.

Customers shop inside H Mart Cherry Hill.Hira Qureshi

Where to start your H Mart visit

I arrived at the brick building, marked with the familiar “H Mart” sign in big red letters, at about 11 a.m. Entering through the double sliding doors of the second floor, I found myself inside the new food court.

A few customers dined in the massive seating area that morning, enjoying various dishes. I decided to grab an iced brown sugar coffee boba from Tiger Sugar as a little treat to sip on during my exploration.

Beginning the journey on the second floor was the right move, according to Ryan Solot, a regular shopper at H Mart. He and his wife, Miki Solot, came to the store once a week before renovations. The couple were shopping for dashi stock and Japanese sauces when I ran into them. They were happy to see the makeover, particularly on the second floor’s general shop department. But the Solots still felt the first-level aisles were a bit narrow for ideal grocery shopping.

“The layout is strangely unchanged,” Ryan Solot said. “It’s still kind of awkward to get through the aisles … but start from the top [floor] and make your way down, it’s much more organized upstairs.”

Korean beauty section at H Mart Cherry Hill.Hira Qureshi

The second floor of H Mart: general goods, Korean beauty products, and an arcade

Walking out of the food court area, I found a mini Korean beauty store with boxed shelving displaying creams, serums, cleansers, tonics, and other products from popular brands such as Medicube, Anua, and Beauty of Joseon. Attendants explained the various products to customers, especially to Korean skincare novices like myself.

Neon arrow signs next to the beauty department directed me into H Mart’s general store and “H Pop” section. A small selection of drinks and snacks lined the shelves leading me into the rows of shelves with over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, toiletry items, slippers, bedding, and kitchenware.

In the back corner I found a vast selection of cutesy notebooks, pens (ones with funky kiwi and toilet attachments), furry character key chains, mini toys, makeup storage containers, and other knickknacks. The prices for items were organized by serial numbers, which were listed on a card hanging off the shelves. Pro tip: Take a photo of that price card to reference as you shop.

Customers shop inside H Mart Cherry Hill.Hira Qureshi

The first floor of H Mart: frozen foods, fresh produce and seafood, snacks, and lots of instant noodles

Taped to the elevator, two signs offered directions on where to find specific items. “Second floor: food court, house ware, characters, K-beauty, game, health food” and “First floor: Asian/Western, produce, fish, meat, ready to eat, banchan” were written in all caps and highlighted in yellow.

The elevator also had another sign with an important tip for shoppers: “You are welcome to shop freely on both 1st and 2nd floor, and you may check out either floor.”

Downstairs on the first level, the elevator opened up to aisles upon aisles of snacks, produce, sauces, packaged sweets, and lots of instant noodles. Each aisle is organized by number with a sign noting all the items available.

Shrimp crackers at H Mart Cherry Hill.Hira Qureshi

I walk into Aisle 3 as I exited the elevator and found snacks galore. KitKats, Pocky sticks, Buldak ramen-flavored chips, O’jelly real plum candies, lychee gummies, Poongnyun Bakery seaweed crackers, and so much more lined the shelves. I picked up some of my favorites: Shrimp crackers, crispy snacks made from starch and ground shrimp, and a bag of chocolate yogurt-covered orange slices sitting nearby.

Next, I headed into Aisle 5 for beverages. The vast selection includes soy milk, hojicha, banana milk, corn silk tea, coconut milk and juice, and taro. I grabbed a tall can of Thai tea and a couple of glass bottles of Ramune, a fizzy, fruity, sweet Japanese soda.

Thai tea at H Mart Cherry Hill.Hira Qureshi

I stopped by Aisle 10 for chili oil and pho seasonings. And on Aisle 1, I found instant noodles plentiful — the Japanese-style soba noodle box piqued my interest. At the end of Aisle 9, I saw cups filled with ice in the freezer section and drinks packaged in pouches for easy pouring. I grabbed the peach mango tea to accompany my post-shopping food court lunch.

As I walked deeper into the store, I found Catherine Yao and her mother, Jingjing Dong, in the massive seafood section, picking live crabs from a big box.

Live crab selection at H Mart Cherry Hill.Hira Qureshi

Yao and Dong, who live five minutes from the store, come to the H Mart every week. They come for the fresh seafood — live fish, lobsters, and crabs swim in big tanks near the butchers, while some sit in displays on ice — and frozen meats — think beef bulgogi and pork belly. The two also like exploring the premade foods section next door; I picked up a crab onigiri for the road.

The mother-daughter duo recommended stopping by the vast produce section near the cashiers. “I like the fresh durian, lychees, mangoes, and the gold melons,” Dong said.

Food court at H Mart Cherry Hill.Hira Qureshi

The food court

Around noon, I took the elevator back up to the second floor and ventured back into the food court for lunch.

The court can feel overwhelming, with nine vendors to choose from — think bibimbap, Korean fried chicken, and noodles. Thankfully, Yao and Dong recommended a couple of options: Kyodong Noodles, a Korean-style Chinese noodle restaurant; Daily Seoul, a Korean lifestyle food brand; and Tiger Sugar, the Taiwanese bubble tea vendor I sampled earlier.

While perusing the vendors, I ran into regular Ryan Solot at Mirim, a traditional Korean restaurant. He recommended the cold buckwheat noodle soup. “I didn’t like how it looked at first but then I tried it and it was very good,” he said.

Spicy cold buckwheat noodle soup H Mart Cherry Hill.Hira Qureshi

I ordered the spicy buckwheat noodles with beef at Mirim. The dish was served in a metal bowl with pickled vegetables on the side, chopsticks included.

For Yao, the food court is a great addition to the store.

“I like coming here more now because they have a food court — we go to eat there pretty often, for lunch and dinner sometimes,“ she said.

H Mart Cherry Hill: 1720 Route 70 E, Cherry Hill; 856-489-4611; Monday to Sunday, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.

June 16, 2026
Inside a whimsical Merion Station home | Inquirer Lower Merion
Hi, Lower Merion! 👋

Think your home is colorful? This Merion Station couple takes things up a notch or two. Also this week, shoppers remember longtime Ardmore staple Past Present Future ahead of its closure, a popular Villanova University bar under investigation says it’s being targeted, plus thousands of Main Line Health patients insured by UnitedHealthcare risk going out of network amid contract negotiations.

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Inside a couple’s colorful and whimsical Merion Station home

Noel and Lindsay Carota at their home, where they have lived since 1990. Allie Ippolito / For The Inquirer

When Lindsay and Noel Carota moved into their five-bedroom Georgian revival Merion Station home in 1990, they set about making it their own.

Today, the house is a riot of colors and textures and full of whimsical touches that start at the entrance. There, visitors are greeted by a brass-frog knocker on a purple door. Inside, there are plenty more frogs — something Lindsay began collecting at 21.

Rooms are painted in watercolor hues of blues, pinks, greens, yellows, and purples, including the dining room, which has swirls of pink on its ceiling and floral fabric wallpaper with matching drapes.

Take a peek at their one-of-a-kind decor.

Remembering the past and looking to the future

Sherry Tillman has operated Past Present Future for 50 years. Tyger Williams / Staff Photographer

After 50 years in business, the last 30 or so in Ardmore, Sherry Tillman is getting ready to retire and will soon close beloved shop Past Present Future.

Located at 15 Lancaster Ave., the store became a popular spot to shop for an array of goods, from trinket boxes to figurines to tarot cards. While she hasn’t set an official closing date, Tillman has begun discounting her inventory as she winds down, with plans to later sell the building itself.

The Inquirer’s Denali Sagner caught up with Tillman about how the shop evolved and how she helped spur the local art community.

💡 Community News
- Popular Villanova University student watering hole Kelly’s Taproom is being investigated by the Pennsylvania Bureau of Liquor Control Enforcement for alleged violations including noise, open containers, and disorderly conduct. But the owners say it’s the latest development in a decades-long battle with local officials and residents. The Inquirer’s Denali Sagner has the details.
- Some 32,000 Main Line Health patients insured by UnitedHealthcare could face service interruptions and providers going out of network if the insurer and the health system, which owns Bryn Mawr Hospital and Lankenau Medical Center, don’t reach a deal by June 30. The two organizations are currently in negotiations.
- The community is mourning the death of Wynnewood native and local public relations maven Nina G. Zucker, who died last week at the age of 69. A Lower Merion High School alum, Zucker was the founder and president of her eponymous firm, Nina Zucker Associates, where she worked on public relations and marketing campaigns for clients ranging from musicians, actors, artists, and athletes to governments and nonprofits.
- The township is hosting a public meeting on Tuesday along with Amtrak about the railroad’s plans to upgrade the power systems on the Bryn Mawr to Paoli segment of its Harrisburg line. The meeting will take place from 6 to 8 p.m. at the township building. You can also attend virtually.
- The latest edition of Inquirer series “How I Bought This House” takes us just over the township border to Wynnefield, where a 38-year-old accountant purchased a new-construction townhouse for $499,000. Heather Ong prioritized a move-in ready spot that was quiet and had outdoor space for her dog, Lilly, landing on a neighborhood that gave her “a bigger bang” for her buck.
- A Wynnewood family got a surprise visit from the Phillie Phanatic and a makeover for their yard earlier this week when the team partnered with swing set company King Swings. The gift, which included a garden upgrade and a new doghouse, comes in the wake of the family losing their father to a rare disease. (6abc)
🏫 Schools Briefing
- Lower Merion School District is considering a policy that would help reduce screen time for its youngest learners, including no longer assigning laptops and iPads to kindergartners, first graders, and second graders. There would also be changes to how technology is used for third- through sixth-grade students. The Inquirer’s Maddie Hanna lays out the details and explains why some parents still don’t think the policy goes far enough.
- Lower Merion’s school board is slated to meet Monday to approve its final budget for the 2026-27 school year, which calls for a 3.5% property tax hike. There’s also a facilities and purchasing committee meeting this morning.
- The class of 2026 graduated last week in ceremonies at Villanova University’s Finneran Pavilion. Lower Merion High School graduated 415 seniors and Harriton High School graduated 300 seniors.
- Final exams begin today for high school students. There are a number of end-of-year events, including Cynwyd Elementary’s fourth grade “glow up” party this evening, Black Rock’s “Royal Jubilee” tomorrow, and eighth-grade promotion ceremonies on Monday and Tuesday. There are also fourth-grade promotion ceremonies on Tuesday and Wednesday. Wednesday is the last day of classes for this school year. See the district’s full calendar here.
🍽️ On our Plate
- With summer right around the corner, farmers markets are in full swing. Luckily there are a few nearby, including the Bryn Mawr Farmers Market, the Lancaster County Farmers Market in Wayne, and for those who don’t mind crossing the river, the Pretzel Park Farmers Market in Manayunk. The Inquirer’s Hira Qureshi has rounded up two dozen spots to check out.
🎳 Things to Do

🎶 Bryn Mawr Twilight Concerts: Folk and blues singer Tom Rush headlines this week’s show. ⏰ Friday, June 12, 7 p.m. 💵 $25.88, free for kids 12 and under 📍 Bryn Mawr Gazebo

💃 The Rock and Roll Playhouse: The kid-friendly outfit will perform Taylor Swift tunes. ⏰ Saturday, June 13, 11:45 a.m. 💵 $20.44, free for kids under 1 📍 Ardmore Music Hall

🎵 Music in the Park: The summer concert series kicks off with a performance by local party band The Percolators. ⏰ Wednesday, June 17, 7 p.m. 💵 Free 📍 Narberth Park gazebo

☀️ Summer Solstice: Ahead of the longest day of the year, celebrate the season with a wine garden, kids activities, food, music, and a bonfire. ⏰ Thursday, June 18, 6:30-9 p.m. 💵 $35 per family 📍 Riverbend Environmental Education Center

🏡 On the Market

A classic stone Colonial with a pool

An aerial view of the property, which has a pool and back garden.Patrick Steven Boyhan II/Alcove Media | Courtesy of Adam Ferst/Compass

Built in 1943, this Penn Valley home exudes Old World charm from its stone exterior to the intricate moldings inside. The Colonial has both living and family rooms, both with their own fireplaces, an updated kitchen, and five bedrooms, in addition to a rec room. It also features a patio that opens onto a pool and a circular garden that branches off to a shed. There’s an open house Saturday from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

See more photos of the property here.

Price: $1.455M | Size: 5,142 SF | Acreage: 1.05

🗞️ What other Lower Merion residents are reading this week:
By submitting your written, visual, and/or audio contributions, you agree to The Inquirer’s Terms of Use, including the grant of rights in Section 10.

This suburban content is produced with support from the Leslie Miller and Richard Worley Foundation and The Lenfest Institute for Journalism. Editorial content is created independently of the project donors. Gifts to support The Inquirer’s high-impact journalism can be made at inquirer.com/donate. A list of Lenfest Institute donors can be found at lenfestinstitute.org/supporters.
June 11, 2026
Swarthmore 9 ask DA to drop ‘absurd’ charges | Inquirer Greater Media
Hi, Greater Media! 👋

A group of pro-Palestinian protesters arrested at Swarthmore College last year asked the Delaware County district attorney to drop the “absurd” trespassing charges this week. Here’s what to know ahead of the potential trial. In other local news, fans of HBO’s Task can buy items used on the show, an area medical logistics company is shutting down, plus additional teacher layoffs could hit Wallingford-Swarthmore School District.

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Delco DA moving ahead with ‘Swarthmore 9’ trespassing charges

Swarthmore College student Jace Boland, one of nine protesters facing charges, speaks at a news conference Tuesday outside the Delaware County Courthouse. Alejandro A. Alvarez / Staff Photographer

The Delaware County district attorney plans to maintain charges brought against nine pro-Palestinian protesters arrested last spring on Swarthmore College’s campus.

The protesters, mostly unaffiliated with the school save for a current and former student, called the charges “absurd” at a press conference earlier this week, asking the DA to drop the charges.

District Attorney Tanner Rouse said the group had been offered the chance to plead to a lesser, summary offense, which they refused.

A lawyer for the protesters has filed for a motion to dismiss, which will be argued on June 22, ahead of what could be their trial if it moves forward.

The Inquirer’s Vinny Vella explains why the DA pressed charges and why the protesters didn’t agree to a plea.

💡 Community News
- Fans of the Delaware County-set HBO crime drama Task can now own a small piece of the show thanks to Thrift & Thrive. The Drexel Hill shop, previously known as Nana’s Attic, received a truckload of items last week including furniture and apparel used on set.
- Upper Providence Township-based healthcare and life sciences on-demand delivery company American Expediting Logistics is laying off all 86 of its employees after ceasing operations last week. The company cited reduced spending in the industry and “ongoing pressures across the transportation sector.”
- Swarthmore is hiring for an assistant borough manager. It also continues hiring a full-time manager after the previous one was terminated in March.
- Some 32,000 Main Line Health patients insured by UnitedHealthcare could face service interruptions and providers going out of network if the insurer and the health system, which owns Riddle Hospital in Middletown Township, don’t reach a deal by June 30. The two organizations are currently in negotiations.
- Delaware County launched a new mobile health initiative last week known as Wellness on Wheels. The 33-foot-long RV will offer healthcare services such as vaccines, blood pressure readings, and prostate cancer screenings at county health events. Organizations will also be able to request it for other community events.
- Heads up for drivers: Aqua Pennsylvania is scheduled to begin monthslong construction on a $1.2 million water main project Tuesday on North Orange Street between Kirk Lane and West 5th Street in Media and Upper Providence Township. Work will take place weekdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. with the project slated for completion in November.
- Speaking of road closures, the Media 5 Mile Race returns tomorrow and will cause closures on impacted roads from about 4 to 9 p.m., including parking restrictions. The sold-out race kicks off at 7 p.m.
- Sunday is the last day for Pepper Lee Boutique and Gina the Jewelry Lady at their Glen Mills location at 818 Baltimore Pike. The stores will reopen above the Country Deli at 1176 N. Middletown Rd. in Media on July 2.
🏫 Schools Briefing
- Wallingford-Swarthmore School District is weighing additional layoffs amid its budget crunch, in addition to reevaluating class sizes, Superintendent Russell Johnston said Tuesday at a school board finance committee meeting. The Inquirer’s Maddie Hanna has the latest on WSSD’s financial woes.
- Also in WSSD, tomorrow is the last day of school. There’s an eighth-grade bridge crossing this morning and a school board meeting Monday evening. See the district’s full calendar here.
- In Rose Tree Media School District, today is the last day of afternoon kindergarten for Media Elementary. It’s also the eighth-grade recognition ceremony at Springton Lake. Tomorrow is the last day of school, when there will be early dismissals and fifth-grade clap-outs. There’s a school board meeting this evening. See the district’s full calendar here.
- Tomorrow is the deadline for RTMSD families to complete the 2026-27 transportation survey, letting the district know what students will or won’t ride the bus next school year.
🍽️ On our Plate
- Looking for a place to dine with your pup this summer? White Dog Cafe and Terrain Cafe, both in Glen Mills, offer dog-friendly dining. (Main Line Today)
🎳 Things to Do

🍦 Ice Cream Social: Grab a scoop of ice cream and a bite to eat from food trucks in celebration of the last day of school. There will also be live music and face painting. ⏰ Thursday, June 11, 5-9 p.m. 💵 Pay as you go 📍 Swarthmore town center

🎶 Rose Tree Summer Concert Festival: This year’s concert series kicks off with a performance by the Delaware County Symphony on Wednesday, followed by the Fabulous Greaseband next Thursday, Philly Gumbo next Friday, the Rose Tree Pops next Saturday, and the Jersey Beach Boys next Sunday. ⏰ Wednesday, June 17-Sunday, June 21, 7:30 p.m. 💵 Free 📍 Rose Tree Park, Media

🏡 On the Market

A stately five-bedroom Media home with beautiful grounds

The home was built in 1904 and spans just over 4,000 square feet.Radiq Corporation | Courtesy of Gary Scheivert/BHHS Fox & Roach-Media

Built in the early 20th century, this stately Colonial in Upper Providence Township blends historic and modern elements like a stone exterior and portico that harken to the past, while a renovated kitchen is thoroughly 21st century. It features quartz countertops and stainless steel appliances and looks onto a family room with rounded windows and a fireplace. The home has five bedrooms, with the third floor dedicated to the primary suite, complete with a walk-in closet and dressing room. Outside, there are multiple slate patios as well as a meandering water feature that ends in a small pond. There’s an open house Sunday from noon to 2 p.m.

See more photos of the property here.

Price: $1.65M | Size: 4,020 SF | Acreage: 0.9

🗞️ What other Greater Media residents are reading this week:
By submitting your written, visual, and/or audio contributions, you agree to The Inquirer’s Terms of Use, including the grant of rights in Section 10.

This suburban content is produced with support from the Leslie Miller and Richard Worley Foundation and The Lenfest Institute for Journalism. Editorial content is created independently of the project donors. Gifts to support The Inquirer’s high-impact journalism can be made at inquirer.com/donate. A list of Lenfest Institute donors can be found at lenfestinstitute.org/supporters.
June 11, 2026
Oregon man pleads guilty to murder, admits stabbing Cherry Hill veterinarian to death in 2024

An Oregon man who drove across the country in a jealous rage to kill his ex-boyfriend’s new partner in Cherry Hill has pleaded guilty to first-degree murder in connection with the 2024 slaying, prosecutors said Wednesday.

Cristian Custodio-Aquino, 28, of Portland, was charged in the stabbing death of Michael Anthony, a well-liked South Jersey veterinarian.

The body of Anthony, 45, was discovered on the front lawn of his home on Sharrowvale Road early on a December morning, prosecutors said.

Anthony had been stabbed in the body, neck, and head. Detectives soon linked the killing to Custodio-Aquino using DNA from a pair of prescription eyeglasses he had left at the scene and by tracking his vehicle entering and leaving the neighborhood.

He was arrested in California and has since been incarcerated in a New Jersey correctional facility.

With his guilty plea, Custodio-Aquino is expected to be sentenced to 30 years in state prison without the possibility of parole, according to the Camden County Prosecutor’s Office.

Grace C. MacAulay, the county prosecutor, called Anthony’s death tragic, saying it had deeply affected the Camden County community.

“This guilty plea represents a significant step toward justice and ensures the defendant will be held accountable for his actions,” she said in a statement.

Custodio-Aquino’s defense lawyer had said there was little evidence tying him to the crime, but prosecutors pieced together what they said was a compelling case.

In addition to the eyeglasses investigators linked to the Peru native, prosecutors were able to identify Custodio-Aquino’s black Nissan Altima entering Anthony’s neighborhood on the morning of the Dec. 10 killing, and later leaving the scene.

After Anthony’s murder, prosecutors said, Custodio-Aquino drove to Fresno, Calif., where he stayed with a friend. He also wiped his phone and attempted to sell his vehicle. Investigators later recovered samples of Anthony’s blood from inside the car.

Michael Anthony, 45, a South Jersey veterinarian, was found dead outside his home in Cherry Hill.Courtesy of Haddon Vet

All the while, prosecutors said, Custodio-Aquino searched the internet for news stories that mentioned Anthony’s killing and his memorial service.

Investigators eventually learned that Custodio-Aquino had a previous relationship with Anthony’s partner, Kyle Bartsch, and killed Anthony out of jealousy. Custodio-Aquino and Bartsch had lived together in Haddon Township but separated in 2021 after a domestic dispute, prosecutors said.

Not long before Anthony’s murder, he and Bartsch had communicated with Custodio-Aquino and knew that he was returning to the East Coast, according to prosecutors.

The death of Anthony, a divorced father of two, rattled neighbors in the Barclay Farm section of Cherry Hill.

His body was discovered facedown on the front lawn by his 16-year-old son, who had gone to look for his father after he did not return from an early morning walk, prosecutors said.

Relatives described Anthony as devoted to his family and two sons, and after his death, tributes poured in from friends, neighbors, and people whose pets he treated at his Haddon Heights veterinary clinic.

Bartsch said in an interview last year that he was devastated by the “sudden and senseless” loss of his partner. He described Anthony, his partner of three years, as “an exceptional person, universally loved by those who knew him.”

June 10, 2026
An artisan brewery is opening its second outpost | Inquirer Chester County
Hi, Chester County! 👋

A new brewery is opening this weekend in Spring City. Here’s what to know. Also this week, we take a peek inside a couple’s Berwyn garden that blooms year-round, a Pennsylvania Supreme Court case involving West Chester University could have broader ramifications, plus, several new eateries are opening, including a coffee shop.

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Punch Buggy Brewing Company opens Spring City location

Punch Buggy Brewing Company’s Spring City outpost will open Saturday, June 13.John McGuire

A Philadelphia brewery is getting ready to open its new outpost in Spring City. After a year in the works, Punch Buggy Brewing Company will debut its second location at 77 N. Main St. this Saturday, taking over a former hardware store.

The new location will serve Punch Buggy’s brews, which range from IPAs and lagers popular with the Philly crowd, to sours and dark beers, which have gained popularity locally thanks to the brewery’s foray into the farmer’s market.

In addition to beer, Punch Buggy will partner with Deezy’s Famous Cheesesteaks for food, and host live music on select nights.

The Inquirer’s Brooke Schultz has all the details.

How a couple transformed their Berwyn garden to have year-round color

Bob and Bonnie Dettore in the garden at their Berwyn home. Allie Ippolito / For The Inquirer

After purchasing their Colonial-revival split-level in Berwyn in 1987, Bonnie and Bob Dettore set about transforming the home, inside and out.

Owned by seven people before them and full of old growth trees and bare ground, it was once “dark and damp all the time,” Bonnie said. That’s no longer the case thanks to Bob’s handiwork.

The inside of the home has been overhauled and in the past four decades, its grounds have been transformed to showcase year-round color, thanks to showy rhododendrons, redbuds, ironwoods, magnolias, dogwoods, spring bulbs, and yellow witch hazel.

Take a peek inside their garden.

📍 Countywide News
- Chester County remains in a drought warning as the hot summer months approach. Officials are asking residents to voluntarily reduce water usage by 10% to 15%.
- An April Pennsylvania Supreme Court ruling in favor of West Chester University may have ripple effects beyond the borough. Judges ruled that the tax-exempt university didn’t have to pay for stormwater treatment after considering it a tax, not a fee. Now numerous Pennsylvania communities might see higher stormwater bills as a result, The Inquirer’s Anthony Wood explains.
- Some 32,000 Main Line Health patients insured by UnitedHealthcare could face service interruptions and providers going out of network if the insurer and the health system, which owns Paoli Hospital, don’t reach a deal by June 30. The two organizations are currently in negotiations.
- There was another black bear sighting over the weekend, this time in East Goshen and Willistown Townships. In April, residents reported spotting a black bear in West Vincent Township. Residents are advised to take precautions and report sightings. (6abc)
💡 Community News
- Global investment firm Vanguard is shrinking its physical footprint in Malvern by not renewing its expiring lease at 45 Liberty Blvd. The company said it plans to relocate employees working at that office to its nearby main campus.
- West Chester-based home shopping giant QVC is among the largest companies in the U.S., ranking No. 433 on the latest Fortune 500. The company reported $9 billion in revenue last year before filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy earlier this spring.
- After pushing the NCAA Division II baseball championship to a deciding third game, West Chester University fell to the University of Tampa 8-4.
- West Vincent Township’s board of supervisors is scheduled to consider Toll Brother’s proposal to build 46 single-family homes along five properties on South Chester Springs and Conestoga Roads, about 60% of which is preserved open space, at its meeting Monday at 7 p.m.
- Last week, Willistown Township’s board of supervisors voted to approve creating a township sewer authority, which it will now file with the state.
- West Whiteland Township’s board of supervisors will discuss adopting a new comprehensive plan, which includes goals of improving public transit services, pedestrian and bicycle access, and conservation. The board will meet at 6:30 p.m. tonight at the township building, as well as on Zoom.
- There’s a public open house on Monday at the Caln Township building to discuss the Lincoln Highway corridor. Residents can weigh in on safety improvements, access, and preliminary designs.
🚧 Roadwork to watch out for
- Coatesville and Caln, Sadsbury, Valley, and West Caln Townships: There will be an overnight lane closure on Route 30 westbound between Airport Road and Kings Highway from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. through Friday.
- East Coventry Township: A monthslong project to update the bridge on Ellis Woods Road over Pigeon Creek got underway this week and will continue through October, during which time the bridge will remain closed.
- East Nottingham Township: Woods Road between Pugh and Hickory Hill Roads will be closed today from 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. for pipe repairs.
- London Grove Township: Resurfacing work begins today on Clay Creek Road between Garden Station Road and the Avondale Borough line, as well as on East Avondale Road between Clay Creek and Rose Hill Roads. Work is expected to continue through June 22 with daily road closures.
- Wallace and West Nantmeal Townships: Creek Road between Fairview and Manor Roads will be closed on weekdays from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. through next Thursday.
- Warwick Township: Work continues on Harmonyville Road next week, with a closure between Hopewell and Saint Peters Roads on Monday and Tuesday from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- West Chester: Both South Church Street between University Avenue and Price Street and Sharpless Street between High and Darlington Streets will be closed from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. through Friday.
- Willistown Township: Milling and paving work began this week and is expected to continue for the next three weeks on roads throughout the township. See which ones will be impacted here.
🏫 Schools Briefing
- Great Valley School District’s board approved its 2026-27 budget earlier this month, which includes a 3.49% property tax increase.
- Registration for Phoenixville Area School District’s Power Up for School program is now open. During the July 30 event, families can learn about programs and get vaccines or physicals for their children. Registration must be completed by July 17.
- West Chester Area School District has approved its 2026-27 budget, with a 3.3% real estate tax increase for Chester County residents.
🍽️ On our Plate
- Looking for a spot to watch the World Cup? The Inquirer’s Beatrice Forman rounded up bars to catch the game, including Kildare’s Irish Pub in West Chester, which is hosting a 21+ watch party Friday when Team USA takes on Paraguay.
- Twin Valley Coffee has opened a location at 4043 Main St. in Elverson, with a “homecoming weekend” taking place Friday and Saturday.
- Asad’s Hot Chicken is opening a location in Malvern this Friday at 490 Lancaster Ave. in the Frazer Shopping Center. To mark the occasion, it will offer free food from 3 to 6 p.m. The Philadelphia-born fast-casual eatery specializes in halal fried chicken.
- Parlor Doughnuts is opening in Berwyn this Saturday and will give away donuts from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Located at 602 Lancaster Ave., the Indiana-based donut chain is known for its sweet and savory layered donuts with flavors like buffalo chicken, pepperoni, maple pecan, and bourbon caramel. It also offers vegan- and keto-friendly options.
- Herr’s released the winning chip flavors for the 2026 spin on its “Flavored by Philly” competition this week, but instead of a single winner, the Nottingham chip company is releasing three in honor of the nation’s 250th birthday. The “Taste the 250” winners are Freedom Loaded Cheese Fries, Liberty Hickory Barbeque, and United Jalapeño Cream Cheese and will be available throughout the summer.
🎳 Things to Do

🎙️ Sound of Summer Free Concert Series: The annual concert series returns for the season, featuring a performance by Coatesville’s classical soul, funk, and jazz outfit The Sermon! There will also be food trucks. ⏰ Wednesday, June 10, 6:30-8:30 p.m. 💵 Free 📍 Anson B. Nixon Park, Kennett Square

🎹 Tredyffrin Township Summer Concert Series: This year’s concert series kicks off with a performance by the Tim Williams Band. ⏰ Thursday, June 11, 7 p.m. 💵 Free 📍 Wilson Farm Park, Wayne

🎨 Phoenixville Art Street Festival: Now in its ninth year, the festival will feature over 70 artists, including live performances. ⏰ Saturday, June 13, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. 💵 Free 📍 Downtown Phoenixville

🍇 Mainstreet on the Vine: There will be wine, live music, vendors, and ice cream at this afternoon event. ⏰ Saturday, June 13, noon-5 p.m. 💵 Pay as you go 📍 Wayvine Vineyard, Nottingham

☀️ Downingtown Summer Jam: There will be live music, food trucks, and drinks at this family-friendly event. ⏰ Saturday, June 13, 4-9 p.m. 💵 Pay as you go 📍 Kerr Park, Downingtown

🍷 Kennett Summerfest: Sample sips from over a dozen local and regional wineries, cideries, and meaderies at this 21-and-over event. There will also be music, vendors, and food to purchase. Non-alcohol tickets are also available. ⏰ Sunday, June 14, 2-6 p.m. 💵 $46.35-$103 📍 100 block of South Broad Street, Kennett Square

🏡 On the Market

A converted 1850s farmhouse with modern flair

The home’s family room features vaulted ceilings and a floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace.Paul Ingram/PCI-Pro | Courtesy of The Stagliano Team

A three-bedroom carriage house-style home in a converted farmhouse that dates back to the 1850s is on the market for the first time. Part of the Greenbank Cottages, the home is located in what was once the defunct Upattinas School that was converted into five residences. This one spans three levels and has stone on the interior and exterior. The main level features a living room with 30-foot ceilings anchored by a stone fireplace, original beams, and several chandeliers. Other features include a lounge area with a wet bar, an office, a courtyard, and a primary suite with a built-in closet system. There’s an open house Friday from 4 to 6 p.m.

See more photos of the property here.

Price: $824,999 | Size: 2,594 SF

🗞️ What other Chester County residents are reading this week:
By submitting your written, visual, and/or audio contributions, you agree to The Inquirer’s Terms of Use, including the grant of rights in Section 10.

This suburban content is produced with support from the Leslie Miller and Richard Worley Foundation and The Lenfest Institute for Journalism. Editorial content is created independently of the project donors. Gifts to support The Inquirer’s high-impact journalism can be made at inquirer.com/donate. A list of Lenfest Institute donors can be found at lenfestinstitute.org/supporters.
June 10, 2026
Debate over district’s Black history requirement | Inquirer Cherry Hill
Hello, Cherry Hill! 👋

The school board faced pushback recently after one of its members suggested dropping an African American history course requirement amid a budget crunch, which was later withdrawn. Here’s what to know. Also this week, a township resident will become the next artistic director of an area theater, two local spots will be streaming World Cup games, plus, the Radin’s Deli sandwich our reporter loved.

P.S. The Inquirer is launching a new South Jersey morning newsletter next week. Staring Monday, you might see the free daily edition in your inbox. Not already signed up? Get it here. Get to know newsletter editor Taylor Allen and her South Jersey essentials here. And don’t worry, we’ll still be coming to you with Cherry Hill-specific news every week.

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Cherry Hill will keep African American history course requirement

Cherry Hill will maintain an African American history course graduation requirement after a board member suggested making it an elective.Tom Gralish / Staff Photographer

Cherry Hill Public Schools will keep its African American history course as is after a school board member suggested dropping it as a graduation requirement amid budget woes.

The suggestion last month to instead make the course an elective got pushback from students and the community alike, ultimately prompting board member Renee Cherfane to withdraw her proposal.

In 2021, Cherry Hill was the first New Jersey district to require such a course for graduation.

The Inquirer’s Melanie Burney delves into the controversy.

💡 Community News
- Cherry Hill resident Amina Robinson has been named the next artistic director of Theatre Horizon in Norristown. Robinson gained acclaim in 2018 when directing The Color Purple, for which she became the first Black woman to win the Barrymore Award for outstanding direction of a musical. The Inquirer’s Rosa Cartagena spoke with her about the new role and her passion for theater.
- World Cup matches are kicking off tomorrow, with local games at Lincoln Financial Field starting Sunday. Don’t have tickets? Soccer Post Cherry Hill will be streaming games on its seven TVs and later this summer it’ll host a youth soccer camp with a mock-World Cup tournament. AMC Theatres on Route 38 will also have viewings of select games with Spanish-language broadcasts.
- Applications are open for qualifying residents interested in living in Hampton Square, the newly built affordable housing community at 614 Hampton Rd. Qualifying applicants will be put on a waitlist for 45 available units and then randomly selected. Hampton Square offers studio and two- and three-bedroom units for those with very low, low, and moderate incomes. Applications are due by Aug. 7.
- The township has made changes to its household appliances and metal pickups. Starting this week, the township will collect appliance and metal items on Thursdays. Residents must make an appointment for pickup by 3 p.m. on Wednesdays.
- Four people and two dogs were potentially exposed to a rabid bat in a Cherry Hill home recently. On Monday, a state lab confirmed that the bat found was positive for rabies. The dogs were up to date on their vaccines but will be confined for four months.
- Heads up for drivers: Work continues on Kresson Road, which will have a partial closure westbound between Springdale and Cropwell Roads from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. through Friday. Starting today, Kenilworth Avenue will be closed between Chapel Avenue and Route 38 from 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. through Friday. Cooper Landing Road will also be closed between Georgia Avenue and Route 70 overnight from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. through Friday.
- Appliances Outlet is hosting a grand opening from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday for its new Cherry Hill location at 1811 Route 70.
- The former Cherry Hill Diner, which closed in 2023, was demolished last week to make way for a new car wash. The Courier Post captured photos of it coming down.
🏫 Schools Briefing
- As the school year winds down next week, there will be elementary clap-outs on Tuesday and middle school graduations on Wednesday. Next Thursday are the high school graduations, and it’s also the last day of classes for the school year. See the district’s full calendar here.
- Cherry Hill Public Library will have a pop-up graduation photo spot set up in the lobby starting tomorrow and running through next Saturday, complete with props.
- 6abc recently profiled the Domenica Foundation, a South Jersey organization supporting underserved communities, including by providing scholarships for students to attend Catholic schools. The foundation recently celebrated the graduation of its class of 2026 from Camden Catholic High School in Cherry Hill. See the segment here.
🍽️ On our Plate
- One of the best things an Inquirer reporter ate last week? A hot corned beef sandwich at Radin’s Deli. Kicking it up a notch, reporter Beatrice Forman added chopped liver to the famously massive sandwich at the Evesham Road spot, which she said gave it “multi-dimensional flavors.” She added: “Don’t knock it ‘til you try it.”
- A new burger joint is now open in Cherry Hill. Located at 906 Route 70, Slap Burger serves smash burgers, chicken tenders, chicken sandwiches, hot dogs, loaded fries, and milkshakes.
- La Cita Authentic Mexican Restaurant is one of the best spots for Mexican food in the state, according to a recent list from NJ.com, which ranked the Marlton Pike eatery No. 13. It’s known for its tacos, but also offers other classics like fajitas, enchiladas, burritos, and quesadillas.
🎳 Things to Do

🎶 Twilight Concert Series: Max Weinberg’s Jukebox, which specializes in old-school tunes, headlines this week’s event. ⏰ Thursday, June 11, 8 p.m. 💵 Free 📍 Cooper River Park Jack Curtis Stadium

🏊‍♀️ Youth Splash and Dash: Kids ages 7 to 12 can compete in three age-specific divisions in this running and swimming competition. ⏰ Sunday, June 14, 1-3 p.m. 💵 $32.80 📍 Katz JCC

🗓️ VinChelle’s Juneteenth Celebration: The drag show ahead of the holiday will celebrate Black culture. ⏰ Sunday, June 14, 2:30-5 p.m. 💵 $19.03 📍 Vera

🏡 On the Market

A four-bedroom Springdale home with a covered porch

The home has a covered front porch and a two-car garage.Virtual Vista | Courtesy of Jackie DiAntonio/Keller Williams – Main Street

Located in the Springdale neighborhood, this four-bedroom home has multi-level living thanks to its layout. The main level features a foyer, living room, dining room, and eat-in kitchen with granite countertops and stainless steel appliances. There are four bedrooms on the upper level, including a primary suite with a walk-in closet, while the lower level has a family room with a brick fireplace, a full bathroom, and a bonus room. There’s also a finished basement and a fenced backyard.

See more photos of the home here.

Price: $600,000 | Size: 2,499 SF | Acreage: 0.2

🗞️ What other Cherry Hill residents are reading this week:
By submitting your written, visual, and/or audio contributions, you agree to The Inquirer’s Terms of Use, including the grant of rights in Section 10.

This suburban content is produced with support from the Leslie Miller and Richard Worley Foundation and The Lenfest Institute for Journalism. Editorial content is created independently of the project donors. Gifts to support The Inquirer’s high-impact journalism can be made at inquirer.com/donate. A list of Lenfest Institute donors can be found at lenfestinstitute.org/supporters.
June 10, 2026